Newport/Narragansett: More Holiday Shopping and Fair Trade Tuesday

Before my usual Starbucks run and work, I went to Wish Newport just to browse, but of course, my detour ended with a small purchase. Wish Newport, which sells designer women's consignment, also sells young children's designer consignment for babies and toddlers. My cousin is expecting her second son in mid January, so I picked up two Ralph Lauren onesies for only $12.00. Now that's a bargain.

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After that successful steal, I want to go back and buy some more things for my cousin's eldest son, who is currently 15 months old. 

On Facebook, Newport Mercury posted that they needed someone to do a bow-making demonstration for an elaborate big bow. To be completely honest, I think it would be more useful if they covered an article about how to wrap gifts, because there are some atrocious gift wrappers out there who can barely tape the wrapping paper together, let alone make a bow. I sent the paper an email that I would be glad to help. Regardless of whether or not they respond, I think it would be a good idea to do How-Tos on gift wrapping.

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The Fair Trade fashion assignment is going well so far. I have one more interview tomorrow, but after that, I just need to do some research and write the draft for early December. 

In fact, one of my interviewees, Ms. Renee Bowers of the Fair Trade Federation, says that tomorrow is Fair Trade Tuesday! In response to the other shopping holidays after Thanksgiving, I think it is a great way to encourage the public to buy Fair Trade for holiday gifts. 

Fair Trade Tuesday, created by Global Goods Partners, supports by Fair Trade organizations across the nation:

Fair Tuesday (hashtag #FairTuesday) is an initiative created in response to Black Friday and Cyber Monday. The goal of #FairTuesday is to inspire conscious consumerism and show how an everyday purchase can change lives in a whole community. We are featuring fair trade, ethical, and eco-friendly brands and inviting other businesses to take a step towards sustainability.

In the future, I hope Small Business Saturday and Fair Trade Tuesday gain a higher following around the holidays and year-round.

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Monday's Outfit

Narragansett: Labor Day Weekend Recap

While most people spent the long weekend relaxing and going to the beach, I trained for my new hostess job in Newport. Saturday I was interviewed for the position and I started training yesterday. I am really happy I have some income to pay for gas and save up for another study abroad (*coughcoughFrance*), but my overloaded schedule with classes and clubs may prove to be overwhelming. Nevertheless, in the words of Tim Gunn, I am ready to "make it work."

Thankfully this weekend was not all about work--my family celebrated my second cousin's first birthday. The theme was Winnie the Pooh, complete with the large birthday cake and plenty of food. It was a beautiful day for a baby's birthday party.

My mom, my grandmother, and I are heading to a psychic tea room in Massachusetts. We usually go once a year with all of the women in the family, so we are making sure to do the trip before summer ends. For the record, the readings I have had there so far have been fairly accurate. Let's hope the psychic says I am able to keep my job, make serious cash, get good grades and not have my car ticketed by the university security for parking.

Saturday's outfit: Dress from St. Tropez; Belt, vintage

Sunday's outfit: T shirt, Gap; Shorts, Gap vintage (circa 1960s)

Monday's outfit: Dress, (label unknown); Shoes, Ralph Lauren

Rocking Red, White and Blue: Olympics 2012

The London 2012 Olympics begin today! In a few hours, the opening ceremony will take place. 

I may know virtually nothing about the Olympic sports and their athletes, but I do know there are fashions to display your patriotism. If you want official Team USA gear, The Team USA Olympic store is stocked by Nike and Ralph Lauren. Gap has cool Olympic themed graphic T shirts and plenty of other stores have red, white, and blue clothing.

Be sure to check out a variety of different blogs-Chictopia, Lookbook, Polyvore, etc.--to get inspired by how others are dressing for the day. 

Here are some of my favorite picks:

Nike USA Women's London 2012 21st Century  Windrunner Jacket in Silver, $449.95

Ralph Lauren USA Women's London 2012 Slim Mesh Polo in  Red, $145.00

Alex and Ani USA Olympics Gold Tone Expandable Charm Bracelet, $31.95 

Gap Olympic Vintage T in Light Blue Heather, $29.95

Gap Olympic Vintage Tank in Red Silk, $24.95 

Forever 21 LA Dodgers Racerback  Tank  in Cream/Blue,  $14.80

Forever 21 Destroyed Union Jack Tiger T in  Black, $16.90

Forever 21 Premium Studded Cutoffs in White, $19.80

Forever 21 Double Strap Mary Janes in Royal,  $27.80

BDG Flag Short, available at Urban Outfitters $54.00

BDG Striped Crewneck T in Red (also in Navy), available at Urban Outfitters, $18.00

Motel Rock the Vote Jordan Jean, available at Urban Outfitters, $100.00

Jeffrey Campbell Spiked Lita Boot, available at Urban Outfitters, $195.00

Sam Edelman Alexander High Top Sneaker, available at Urban Outfitters,  $100.00

"Olympic Fever" Polyvore Set by Fashionista 12-12

"Hard Work and Dedication Got You to This Point" Polyvore set by Hannah Grace 

If you want to learn more about the London 2012 Opening Ceremony, click here.